Do you think the RDA for protein (0.8 g/kg/day) is sufficient? Think again.
Three major studies reveal a consistent message:
✔️ Low protein intake is linked to a higher risk of death—from all causes, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.
✔️ Higher intakes (in the range of 1.2–1.6 g/kg/day) are associated with:
Better physical function
Lower frailty
But more is not always better. There is little evidence that exceeding ~1.6 g/kg/day provides additional benefit.
A 30-year study of 48,762 women: higher protein intake—especially plant protein—associated with a greater likelihood of healthy aging. Healthy aging = no major disease & good mental, cognitive, and physical function.
🧠🥩🌱 Animal and plant proteins help—but plant protein may offer extra advantages for long-term health and aging.
👉 Bottom line:
The RDA is the minimum to prevent deficiency—not the optimal target for aging well. Aim higher, but skip the extremes; 1.2-1.6 g/kg/d is the sweet spot.
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